How to Choose a Ghanaian Architect for Your Building Project in Ghana

The Value of a Professional Architect

An architect with the appropriate credentials in licensing and education will be an invaluable addition to every building project. The architect is able to provide you with a house plan which accommodates your desires while in accordance with the local building regulations. When building in Ghana, it will be a good idea to hire a Ghanaian architect.

Because of the growing movement towards urbanization in Ghana, there is a lot of opportunity for a new generation of talented architects to create house plans that reflect the heritage and cultural identity of Africa, according to the Ghana Institute of Architects.  The incoming generation of architects in Ghana has much to offer those individuals who are interested in building in Africa.

Questions To Ask The Potential Ghanaian Architects

• What type of experience does the architect have? You want the reassurance that comes from knowing that the architect has designed the type of building that you have in mind.
• How involved will the architect be throughout your project? Some architects will provide their continued assistance throughout each stage of the building, including help with documents, bids and working with the contractor.
• Ask to see examples of some designs that the architect has created and if you can see any completed projects.
• Which services are covered in the architects’ fees? Sometimes the architect will work with other professionals and those consultations may be billed separately.
• Always ask about the architects’ licensing and insurance coverage. The architect should have professional liability insurance. It won’t be out of line to ask to see the paperwork.

An Established Firm in the Area

By choosing an established Ghanaian architectural firm who understands the building climate in Ghana, you can enjoy a new home that reflects the heritage of the African nation. Ghana Homes Group has the experience to provide this perspective. They are globally experienced and are the best architectural firm to create  the dream homes desired by Ghanaians and non-Ghanaians, both locally and within the diaspora.

How To Take Charge Of Your Construction Project In Ghana

Since scams are common if you live outside while a project is being completed in Ghana, there are ways to take charge of the project and avoid some of these potential problems. You must first be present in the process. This does not mean physically per say, but at least being on the phone and in contact with the people working on the project on a regular basis.

Checking In

If you can make at least one or more trips to Ghana, it would be in your best interest to do so. This can save you a lot of money and disappointment in the future. By checking in on things, you are ensuring that the right people are working on your project and completing it as expected. You can be there in person to have questions answered. This is the best way to avoid a scam happening at your expense.

Knowledge

You should go into the project with all the knowledge you can. This means knowing what kind of house plan, building material to use, cost, labor, scams that can happen to you, etc.  Scams can include lying about the cost of materials, completion of the project or asking for more money than what was expected. If you are naive in thinking a scam cannot happen to you, then you are setting yourself up to get taken advantage of. With the right preparation, you can take charge of the project and see it through.

Your Role

It is important to play an active role in the project. You should be involved and take charge with decisions. The people involved should know that you mean business and that taking advantage of you is not an option. If you look to be easy prey, then you run the risk of being scammed. Do not stand by waiting for the project to be completed. Make phone calls, visit the area and keep in regular contact with everyone that is part of the project.  This could really pay off both short-term and long-term.

Leave a comment below. What’s your construction project story?